Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Trailblazer for Women in Law and Beyond
Today, I am celebrating the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s birthday by reflecting on her legacy in law and my time clerking for her. From her early days as a pioneering women’s rights lawyer to being the second woman ever appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, Justice Ginsburg left her mark through her relentless advocacy, pathmarking legal victories, and an unwavering commitment to gender equality. She reshaped the legal landscape and helped make America a more equitable place for both women and men.
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I served as a law clerk for Justice Ginsburg on the Supreme Court during the 2013-2014 term. Working with the Justice—or “the boss,” as my co-clerks and I referred to her—was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In addition to learning from the Notorious RBG (that title had just taken off just before I started clerking), the clerkship experience was often surreal—like the time Yo–Yo Ma dropped by for an incredible private concert at the Court, and was just fascinated to hear about the Court’s operations (photo on right). The Justice took the celebrity in stride and made it all look so easy, and it was easy to forget how hard it was for her to make it to the pinnacle of the legal profession.
When Ginsburg entered Harvard Law School in 1956, she was one of only nine women in a class of over 500 men. That wasn’t easy. She ultimately transferred to Columbia Law School and graduated at the top of her class, and yet was turned down for a Supreme Court clerkship because she was a woman. She later became a law professor (at Rutgers) and co-founded the Women’s Rights Project at the ACLU, where she built the foundation for many of the legal arguments that would shape gender equality law for decades to come.
Before joining the Supreme Court, Justice Ginsburg argued six landmark cases before the Court, winning five. She fought against gender discrimination for women and men who faced inequality under the law. By demonstrating how sexism harmed everyone, she changed how the courts—and our society—viewed gender-based discrimination.
Justice Ginsburg was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1993 by President Clinton and became known for her sharp legal mind, powerful dissents (especially in the later years), and fierce dedication to justice.
Her dissents in cases like Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. (which addressed pay discrimination) and Shelby County v. Holder (which weakened the Voting Rights Act) were powerful reminders of the ongoing fight for equality and justice. She used her voice to call for legislative change when the courts failed to protect fundamental rights. She also saw herself in dissents as writing for the future, when her views would be accepted by the majority.
That future in large part has yet to arrive. But Justice Ginsburg’s life and legacy continues to shape society today. More women than ever are entering law school, serving as judges, and holding positions of power in the legal profession—thanks in no small part to the doors she helped open. And pretty soon all those kids who dressed as the Justice for Halloween will be crushing it at law school. I can’t wait to see how they work to make our country more fair for everyone—as the Justice did.
"Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time." — Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg